Soma

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Soma

OVERDOSE

Overdosage of SOMA commonly produces CNS depression.
Death, coma, respiratory depression, hypotension, seizures, delirium,
hallucinations, dystonic reactions, nystagmus, blurred vision, mydriasis,
euphoria, muscular incoordination, rigidity, and/or headache have been reported
with SOMA overdosage. Serotonin syndrome has been reported with carisoprodol
intoxication. Many of the carisoprodol overdoses have occurred in the setting
of multiple drug overdoses (including drugs of abuse, illegal drugs, and
alcohol). The effects of an overdose of carisoprodol and other CNS depressants
(e.g., alcohol, benzodiazepines, opioids, tricyclic antidepressants) can be
additive even when one of the drugs has been taken in the recommended dosage.
Fatal accidental and non-accidental overdoses of SOMA have been reported alone
or in combination with CNS depressants.

Treatment of Overdosage

Basic life support measures
should be instituted as dictated by the clinical presentation of the SOMA
overdose. Vomiting should not be induced because of the risk of CNS and
respiratory depression, and subsequent aspiration. Circulatory support should
be administered with volume infusion and vasopressor agents if needed. Seizures
should be treated with intravenous benzodiazepines and the reoccurrence of
seizures may be treated with phenobarbital. In cases of severe CNS depression,
airway protective reflexes may be compromised and tracheal intubation should be
considered for airway protection and respiratory support.

For decontamination in cases of severe toxicity,
activated charcoal should be considered in a hospital setting in patients with
large overdoses who present early and are not demonstrating CNS depression and
can protect their airway.

For more information on the management of an overdose of
SOMA, contact a Poison Control Center.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

SOMA is contraindicated in
patients with a history of acute intermittent porphyria or a hypersensitivity
reaction to a carbamate such as meprobamate.

Last reviewed on RxList: 3/1/2013
This monograph has been modified to include the generic and brand name in many instances.